‘No funding applications’ to council for St Patrick’s Day in Limavady

Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council has stated it did not receive any requests for financial support for St Patrick’s Day events in Limavady.

The council was responding to Sinn Fein criticism of March 17 celebrations in the market town.

Sinn Féin Councillor Brenda Chivers said: “This is the first time in over 10 years that no council funding has been allocated for activities on the day. There is usually Irish musicians and dancers in attendance to entertain people in the town along with face painting for the children.

“This will be devestating news for people with young families especially who don’t want to or can’t travel to Derry or elsewhere to celebrate the day and their culture.”

Councillor Chivers went on to allege: “The excuse is that there is a lack of funding does not stand up as we will see when the marching season gets underway, dozens of parades will take place throughout the borough and thousands of pounds of ratepayers money will be spent on clean ups after these.

“Locals who identify as Irish will see the inequality in this.

“There are many people in Limavady and surrounding areas looking forward to celebrate the day in the town who will be bitterly disappointed by this decision.”

In response to the councillor’s claims, a local government authority spokesperson said: “Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council did not receive any funding applications for St Patrick’s Day events.”